TN Visa Eligibility for Librarians Under USMCA

Librarians, with their specialized skills in information management and research support, are among the various professionals who can qualify for TN visa status under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA). This offers Canadian and Mexican librarians a unique opportunity to work in the United States. Here, we discuss the occupation and requirements for a librarian under a TN visa.

Role of a Librarian for TN Visa Purposes

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), the role of a librarian and library media specialist involves:

• Assisting people in finding information and conducting research for personal and professional purposes.
• Organizing and managing library materials to ensure ease of access.
• Providing research assistance, evaluating search results, and referencing materials for library patrons.
• Researching and recommending new books and materials.
• Managing collections and selecting new items for acquisition.
• Planning and executing programs for various audiences, like children’s story time.
• Educating on information resources and researching necessary technological equipment.
• Supervising library technicians, assistants, and volunteers.
• Handling administrative tasks, including library budgets.

Librarians may oversee many aspects of operations in smaller libraries, while in larger ones, they might specialize in areas like user services, technical services, or administration.

Qualifying for TN Visa as a Librarian

To be eligible for TN visa status, librarians should meet these requirements:

• Citizenship: Must be a Canadian or Mexican (Permanent Residents do not qualify).
• Employment Offer: A job offer from a U.S. employer or a contract with a U.S. client is required.
• Role Alignment: Professional duties must be consistent with those of a librarian as defined by the OOH.
• Educational Prerequisites: Possession of an M.L.S. or B.L.S., with another Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree as a prerequisite.
• Non-immigrant Intent: Applicants must demonstrate the intent to return to their home country post-employment.

Certification Requirements for Librarians

A teacher’s certification is typically necessary for librarians, especially public school ones. Some states may require passing standardized tests, such as the PRAXIS II Library Media Specialist test. However, such certification is considered a post-entry requirement and is not essential for obtaining TN visa status.

Consultation

At Richards and Jurusik, our legal practice is devoted to U.S. Immigration Laws, focusing on the USCMA and TN visas. We have helped thousands of qualified professionals successfully obtain TN visa status to work and live in the United States. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced TN visa lawyers to help you with the TN visa application process.